Liquid ion generator and method for producing ion-metal composite using same

Abstract

Provided are a liquid ion generator and a method for producing an ion-metal composite using same. More specifically, the ion generator comprises: a chamber; an electromagnetic field generator for generating an electric field or a magnetic field in the chamber; and a power source for supplying power to the electromagnetic field generator.

Description

Liquid ion generator and method for manufacturing ion-metal complexes using the same

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid ion generator and a method for manufacturing an ion-metal complex using the same.

[0002] Complexes of transition metals and ions are utilized in a wide variety of fields. For example, transition metal-ion complexes, or ion-metal complexes, are being actively researched in areas such as catalysts, semiconductor materials, magnetic materials, and batteries.

[0003] Ion-metal complexes can be manufactured in various ways depending on the constituent elements, but an example is the method of calcining metal precursors and ions in an oxygen atmosphere. However, this method has the problem of requiring a long time to manufacture the ion-metal precursor.

[0004] The present invention was made in the context of the above-mentioned problem, and one of the problems that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a method for manufacturing an ion-metal complex, for example, an ion-metal complex oxide.

[0005] Another problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide an ion generator that can be used in the above manufacturing method.

[0006] The technical problems of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned herein will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the disclosure below.

[0007] An ion generator according to one embodiment of the present invention for solving any of the above problems comprises: a chamber; an electromagnetic field generator that forms an electric field or a magnetic field within the chamber; and a power source that supplies power to the electromagnetic field generator.

[0008] The above power source may include one or more of an AC power source, a variable AC power source, a DC power source, a variable DC power source, and / or a combination thereof.

[0009] The above power source may include at least one of a waveform of a sine wave, a square wave, or a pulse wave.

[0010] In some embodiments, the ion generator may further include a temperature controller for controlling the internal temperature of the chamber.

[0011] The above electromagnetic field generator may include at least a first electrode and a second electrode that are partially opposed to each other.

[0012] In some embodiments, the ion generator further includes an electrode moving element for controlling the position of the first electrode and the second electrode, and the electrode moving element may include one or more of a motor, a magnet, an electromagnet and / or a combination thereof.

[0013] The above-mentioned opposing electrodes are composed of multiple units and can be arranged alternately.

[0014] The above-described electromagnetic field generator further comprises the above-described third electrode and fourth electrode, and the above-described ion generator further comprises a rotating element that rotates at least a portion of the above-described electromagnetic field generator, wherein the first electrode and the third electrode are rotated together by the rotating element, and the second electrode and the fourth electrode are rotated together by the rotating element, and in a certain rotational state, the first electrode and the second electrode are at least partially opposite, and in a certain rotational state, the third electrode and the fourth electrode are at least partially opposite, and the first electrode and the fourth electrode form the same pole, and the second electrode and the third electrode can form the same pole.

[0015] In some embodiments, the ion generator may further include a separator that prevents the ion source from contacting the first electrode or the second electrode within the chamber.

[0016] The first electrode and the second electrode may be subjected to a plating treatment that prevents an ion source from coming into contact with the first electrode and the second electrode within the chamber.

[0017] The above electromagnetic field generator may include at least a partially wound coil.

[0018] The above electromagnetic field generator may further include a first electrode and a second electrode facing each other in the direction of the induced magnetic field formed by the coil.

[0019] The above power source may include a first power source that supplies power to the coil, and a second power source that supplies power to the first electrode and the second electrode.

[0020] A method for manufacturing an ion-metal complex according to one embodiment of the present invention for solving any other problem above includes applying an electron field to a mixture of a precursor and an ion to infiltrate, diffuse, inject, bind, or coat the ion into the precursor.

[0021] The polarity of the above electromagnetic field can change.

[0022] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description.

[0023] According to embodiments of the present invention, charged ions within an electromagnetic field can collide with or come into contact with a metal precursor, thereby effectively penetrating, diffusing, injecting, binding, or coating the ions into the interior or surface of the precursor.

[0024] The effects according to the embodiments of the present invention are not limited by the contents exemplified above.

[0025] The above and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will be clearly understood from the following detailed description combined with the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0026] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing an ion-metal complex according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing a process of performing the manufacturing method of Figure 2 using the ion generator of Figure 1.

[0029] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the movement of the electrodes of the ion generator of Figure 6.

[0033] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing the movement of electrodes of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing the movement of electrodes of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] FIG. 24 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 25 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] FIG. 26 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 27 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] The advantages and features of the present invention and the methods for achieving them will become clear by referring to the embodiments described below in detail together with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below but can be implemented in various different forms. The embodiments are provided merely to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the present invention.

[0054] Various modifications may be made to the embodiments presented in this invention. The embodiments described below are not intended to limit the forms of practice and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions thereof.

[0055] In this specification, 'and / or' includes each of the mentioned items and all combinations of one or more. Also, the singular form includes the plural form unless specifically stated otherwise in the text. As used in this specification, 'comprises' and / or 'comprising' do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other components in addition to the mentioned components. A numerical range indicated using 'to' indicates a numerical range that includes the values ​​listed before and after it as a lower and upper limit, respectively. 'About' or 'approximately' means a value or numerical range within 20% of the value or numerical range listed after it.

[0056] In this specification, ordinal modifiers such as 'first component,' 'second component,' and 'first-1 component' are used merely to distinguish one component from another when referring to components. Accordingly, the first component referred to below may be referred to as the second component within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention. For example, what is referred to as the first component in one embodiment may be referred to as the second component in another embodiment.

[0057] In the drawings, the present invention is not limited to the illustrated form, and the size, thickness, width, length, etc. of the components may be exaggerated or reduced.

[0058] Spatially relative terms such as 'above,' 'upper,' 'on,' 'below,' 'beneath,' and 'lower' may be used to facilitate the description of the relationship between one element or component and another, as illustrated in the drawings. When used in addition to the directions depicted in the drawings, spatially relative terms should be understood as encompassing different orientations of the elements. For example, if an element depicted in a drawing is flipped, an element described as being 'below' or 'beneath' another element may be placed 'above' the other element.

[0059] The first direction (X) refers to any direction on a plane, and the second direction (Y) refers to another direction within the plane that intersects or is orthogonal to the first direction (X). The third direction (Z) refers to yet another direction that intersects or is orthogonal to the plane.

[0060] The present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0061] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 1, the liquid ion generator (11) (or ion active material manufacturing device) according to the present embodiment includes a chamber (100) and may further include an electromagnetic field generator (200) and a power source (300).

[0063] The chamber (100) may provide a reaction space (RS) into which reactants, such as precursors and / or ion sources, are introduced. The precursor may be a precursor comprising a transition metal or an iron phosphate metal compound. Specific examples include titanium, manganese, nickel, cobalt, iron, aluminum, phosphorus, and alloys of two or more of these. The ion source may provide ions of atoms that physically / chemically bond with the precursor, such as cations. The ion source may provide target ions of the ion-metal complex to be formed by dissociation. In other words, the ion source may include a compound containing the target ion atoms of the ion-metal complex to be formed. For example, if a lithium-metal complex is to be formed, the ion source may include a lithium compound. As a non-limiting example, the ion source may include one or more of lithium carbonate (Li2CO3), lithium hydroxide (LiOH), lithium nitrate (LiNO3), lithium sulfide (Li2S), lithium oxide (Li2O), lithium phosphate (Li3PO4), lithium acetate (LiC2H3O2), lithium fluoride (LiF), lithium nitride (Li3N) and / or mixtures thereof.

[0064] The electromagnetic field generator (200) can form an electric field and / or a magnetic field in the reaction space (RS) inside the chamber (100). In this embodiment, the electromagnetic field generator (200) may include a first electrode (210) and a second electrode (220) facing each other. The first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) may be spaced apart in a first direction (X) with at least a portion of the reaction space (RS) between them.

[0065] In some embodiments, a plating layer (not shown) disposed on the surface of the first electrode (210) and / or the second electrode (220) may be further included. That is, the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) may be subjected to plating treatment. As described below, the ion source may dissociate to form ions, and the ions may behave in the reaction space (RS). At this time, the plating layer may be provided to prevent the ions from directly contacting the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) and damaging the electrodes. The element of the plating layer may be appropriately selected in consideration of the element contained in the ion source.

[0066] The power source (300) can provide power to the electromagnetic field generator (200), such as the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220). The power source (300) may include one or more of an AC power source, a variable AC power source, a DC power source, a variable DC power source, and / or a combination thereof. Specifically, the power source (300) may provide AC power to the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220). Additionally, the power source (300) may have at least one waveform among a sine wave, a square wave, or a pulse wave. The frequency of the power source (300) is preferably 1 megahertz (Mhz) or less, and may be, for example, in the range of about 60Hz to 120Hz.

[0067] Although not depicted in the drawing, the ion generator (11) may further include a temperature controller (not shown) embedded in the chamber (100) or placed inside and / or outside the chamber (100). The temperature controller may include a heater for heating, etc.

[0068] Hereinafter, a method for manufacturing an ion-metal complex or an ion active material according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing an ion-metal complex according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a process for performing the manufacturing method of FIG. 2 using the ion generator of FIG. 1.

[0069] Referring further to FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 3, the method for manufacturing an ion-metal complex according to the present embodiment includes a mixing step (S100) of a precursor and an ion source and an ion generating step (S200), and may further include a step of determining an ion concentration (S300) and a calcination step (S400).

[0070] First, the step (S100) of preparing a mixture of a precursor and an ion source may be a step of mixing the precursor (P) and the ion source. The precursor (P) and the ion source have been described above. In addition, a solvent, etc., may be further mixed in addition to the precursor (P) and the ion source.

[0071] In addition, although not shown in the drawing, the preparation step (S100) of the mixture may further include mixing a dopant. Examples of the dopant include one or more elements selected from Al, Ni, Co, Mn, Mg, Na, Si, Cr, Fe, Sr, V, Zn, W, Zr, B, Ba, Sc, Cu, Ti, Mo, P, F, Ga, Ge, As, Se, Br, Nb, Tc, Ta, Y, La, Ru, Sn, Sm, Ca, In, S, and combinations thereof.

[0072] In some embodiments, the step of preparing a mixture of a precursor and an ion source (S100) may further include a step of heating only the precursor (not shown), and may be a step of mixing the ion source and the heated precursor. Before mixing the precursor and the ion source, the polyparticles of the ion-metal complex and / or the particle size of the ion-metal complex produced can be controlled by selectively heating only the precursor.

[0073] Next, the precursor (P) and the ion source mixed within the chamber (100) can be ion-generated (S200). The ion-generating step (S200) may be a step of forming ions derived from the ion source, such as cations (PI), and further, effectively penetrating, diffusing, injecting, binding, or coating the cations (PI) (or anions (NI)) into the precursor (P).

[0074] The ion generating step (S200) may include a liquefaction step (S210) in which the mixture is heated using a temperature controller, such as a heater, and the ion source is at least partially dissolved, melted, or liquefied, and an electron field forming step (S220) in which an electron field is formed.

[0075] In the liquefaction step (S210), the heating temperature may be appropriately selected depending on the type of ion source, but for example, it may be about 100°C or higher, about 150°C or higher, about 200°C or higher, about 250°C or higher, or about 300°C or higher. The upper limit of the heating temperature is not specifically limited, but for example, it may be about 800°C or lower, about 600°C or lower, or about 500°C or lower. In this step, the ion source, i.e., the compound, may be at least partially melted or dissolved to form cations (PI) and anions (NI). If the ion source is a lithium-containing compound, the cation (PI) formed may be a lithium ion. The anion (NI) may vary depending on the type of lithium compound.

[0076] The time of the liquefaction step (S210) may vary depending on the type of ion source and the heating temperature, but it is preferable that it be carried out for several minutes.

[0077] Then, an electromagnetic field can be applied when at least some cations (PI) and anions (NI) are formed from the ion source (S220). When a first electrode (210) and a second electrode (220) facing each other are adopted as an electromagnetic field generator (200) as in the embodiment of FIG. 1, the polarity of the electric field formed in the reaction space (RS) can change alternately as alternating power is applied to the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220). Accordingly, the ionized cations (PI) and anions (NI) in the reaction space (RS) behave within the electric field and can collide with or come into contact with the precursor (P). Also, heat is generated depending on the behavior of the cations (PI) and anions (NI), and the melting or dissolution of the ion source may proceed further. As a non-limiting example, heating using a temperature controller, such as a heater, may not be performed during the electromagnetic field formation step (S220). Additionally, the electromagnetic field formation step (S220) can be performed for several minutes to tens of minutes.

[0078] That is, the cations (PI) and anions (NI) behave by the formed electron field and effectively penetrate, diffuse, inject, bind, or coat into or on the surface of the precursor (P), thereby allowing the precursor (P) and the cations (PI) to form a physical / chemical bond. This can induce the formation of an ion-metal complex.

[0079] Accordingly, the ion generating step (S200) can satisfy the preconditions for the calcination step (S400) between a few minutes and tens of minutes.

[0080] The upper limit of the separation distance between the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) may be about 10 cm, about 8.0 cm, about 6.0 cm, or about 5.0 cm. If the distance between the electrodes (210, 220) is excessively large, the behavior of the ions due to the application of power (e.g., alternating current) may be negligible. The lower limit of the separation distance between the electrodes (210, 220) is not specifically limited, but may be, for example, about 1.0 cm, about 1.5 cm, or about 2.0 cm.

[0081] The above manufacturing method can control whether to initiate a subsequent process based on the concentration of ions (PI, NI) and / or precursor (P) within the reaction space (RS) (S300). The decision step (S300) can be performed by a control unit (controller) (not shown) including a processor of the ion generator (11). In an exemplary embodiment, the control unit can perform the decision step (S300) based on the concentration of cations (PI) (or moles of cations) and the concentration of precursors (P) (or moles of precursors) within the chamber (100).

[0082] Specifically, after performing the ion generating step (S200), if the concentration of the cation (PI) is not sufficiently low according to the judgment step (S300), for example, if the concentration of the cation (PI) is greater than the concentration of the precursor (P), the ion generating step (S200) may be performed again. On the other hand, if the concentration of the cation (PI) is sufficiently low, or if the concentration of the precursor (P) is sufficiently high, for example, if the concentration of the cation (PI) is less than or equal to the concentration of the precursor (P), the calcination step (S400) may be performed. FIG. 2 illustrates a case in which the concentration of the cation relative to the concentration of the precursor is compared with a numerical value (or weight, or reference value) 1 in the judgment step (S300), but the present invention is not limited thereto, and the numerical value (or weight, or reference value) to be compared can be appropriately adjusted.

[0083] The calcination step (S400) may be performed one or more times. Each calcination step (S400) is substantially performed in an oxygen atmosphere, and the calcination temperature may be performed at a temperature of about 700°C to 1,000°C, about 750°C to 900°C, or about 800°C to 850°C. The time of the process referred to as the calcination step (S400) may vary depending on the calcination target, e.g., precursor and lithium compound. The time may be in the range of about 10 minutes to 120 minutes, about 20 minutes to 90 minutes, or about 30 minutes to 60 minutes. Therefore, since the time is significantly reduced compared to the conventional calcination process which was calcined for more than 12 hours, there is an effect of reducing energy, equipment, and costs for calcination.

[0084] The ion-metal complex formed in the ion generating step (S200) can form a stabilized ion-metal complex, such as an ion-metal complex oxide, by bonding oxygen atoms in the calcination step (S400).

[0085] Although not shown in the drawing, a water treatment step and / or a grinding step may be further performed after the calcination step (S400).

[0086] According to the present embodiment, at least some ions (PI, NI) are formed through a liquefaction step (S210), heat is generated through the behavior of the ions (PI, NI) in an electron field, and furthermore, physical / chemical bonding between the precursor (P) and the ions, particularly the cation (PI), can be effectively induced. Additionally, a stabilized ion-metal complex can be formed through a calcination step (S400). According to an embodiment of the present invention, various ion-metal complexes or ion-metal complex oxides can be formed by varying the type of precursor (P) and the type of ion source, i.e., the type of cation (PI). For example, the ion-metal complex produced may include one or more of NCM (Lithium Nickel Cobalt Manganese Oxide), NCA (Lithium Nickel Cobalt Aluminum Oxide), NCMX (Lithium Nickel Cobalt Manganese (Doped with other metal X) Oxide), LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate), LMFP (Lithium Manganese Iron Phosphate), LMFPX (Lithium Manganese Iron Phosphate (Doped with other metal X)), LTO (Lithium Titanate), LMO (Lithium Manganese Oxide), LNMO (Lithium Nickel Manganese Oxide), and LCO (Lithium Cobalt Oxide).

[0087] Other embodiments of the present invention will be described below. However, descriptions of configurations substantially identical or similar to the aforementioned embodiments will be omitted, as they will be easily understood by those skilled in the art from the accompanying drawings.

[0088] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 4, the liquid ion generator (12) according to the present embodiment includes a chamber (100), an electromagnetic field generator (202), and a power source (300). The electromagnetic field generator (202) includes a first electrode (210) and a second electrode (220) that receive power of different polarities from the power source (300), and the first electrode (210), the second electrode (220), or both are provided in multiple numbers, which is different from the embodiment of FIG. 1 and others.

[0090] A plurality of first electrodes (210) and a plurality of second electrodes (220) may be arranged alternately facing each other. By arranging a plurality of first electrodes (210) and second electrodes (220) within a single chamber (100), physical / chemical bonding between the precursor and the ion can be achieved more effectively.

[0091] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0092] Referring to FIG. 5, the liquid ion generator (13) according to the present embodiment includes a chamber (100), an electromagnetic field generator (200), and a power source (300), and is different from the embodiment of FIG. 1, etc., in that it further includes a separator (400) (or a separating element, or a partition wall).

[0093] The separator (400) may be located within the chamber (100). Specifically, the separator (400) may partition the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) from the reaction space (RS). This prevents the precursor and / or ion source, and furthermore, the cations and anions dissociated from the ion source, from coming into contact with the first electrode (210) or the second electrode (220).

[0094] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the movement of the electrodes of the ion generator of FIG. 6.

[0095] Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the liquid ion generator (14) according to the present embodiment includes a chamber (100), an electromagnetic field generator (200), a power source (300), and a separator (400), but differs from the embodiment of FIG. 5 in that it further includes an electrode moving element (500).

[0096] The electrode moving element (500) can change the physical position of the electromagnetic field generator (200), i.e., the first electrode (210) and / or the second electrode (220). The electrode moving element (500) may include one or more of a motor, a magnet, an electromagnet, or a combination thereof.

[0097] In an exemplary embodiment, at a planar view, the chamber (100) may be provided in a roughly cylindrical shape. Also, the separator (400) may be provided in a roughly cylindrical shape. Accordingly, at a planar view, the reaction space (RS) has a roughly circular shape, and the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) may be arranged in an annular partition space.

[0098] The planar shape of the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) may be circular, but the present invention is not limited thereto. With respect to the planar center of the chamber (100), the electrode moving element (500) can rotate the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220). Despite rotation of one or more of the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220), the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) may be spaced apart and facing each other with a reaction space (RS) in between. As previously described, ions can be moved by the electric field formed between the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220). As in this embodiment, the movement of ions can be further controlled by changing the position of the second electrode (220) of the first electrode (210).

[0099] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing the movement of electrodes of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] Referring to FIG. 8, the liquid ion generator (15) according to the present embodiment includes a chamber (100), an electromagnetic field generator, a power source (not shown), and an electrode moving element (not shown), but differs from the embodiment of FIG. 6, etc., in that the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) of the electromagnetic field generator are each arc-shaped.

[0101] With respect to the planar center of the chamber (100), the electrode moving element can rotate the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220).

[0102] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing the movement of electrodes of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0103] Referring to FIG. 9, the liquid ion generator (16) according to the present embodiment includes a chamber (100), an electromagnetic field generator, a power source (not shown), a separator (400), and an electrode moving element (or rotating element) (not shown), but differs from the embodiment of FIG. 6, etc., in that the electromagnetic field generator further includes a third electrode (230) and a fourth electrode (240).

[0104] In an exemplary embodiment, the chamber (100) may be provided in a roughly rectangular shape from a planar viewpoint. Also, the reaction space (RS) partitioned by the separator (400) may have a roughly rectangular shape.

[0105] The first electrode (210) and the third electrode (230) may be arranged adjacently. For example, the first electrode (210) and the third electrode (230) may form a single module (206a) (or a first electrode assembly). Although not shown in the drawing, an insulator may be positioned between the first electrode (210) and the third electrode (230) to prevent a short circuit between the first electrode (210) and the third electrode (230).

[0106] Additionally, the second electrode (220) and the fourth electrode (240) may be arranged adjacently. For example, the second electrode (220) and the fourth electrode (240) may form a single module (206b) (or a second electrode assembly). Although not shown in the drawing, an insulator may be positioned between the second electrode (220) and the fourth electrode (240) to prevent a short circuit between the second electrode (220) and the fourth electrode (240).

[0107] When the power source (not shown) is an AC power source, power of different polarities may be applied to the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220). Also, power of different polarities may be applied to the first electrode (210) and the third electrode (230). Additionally, power of the same polarity may be applied to the first electrode (210) and the fourth electrode (240). In other words, power of the same polarity may be applied to the second electrode (220) and the third electrode (230).

[0108] The space where the first electrode assembly (206a) is placed and the space where the second electrode assembly (206b) is placed can be partitioned from each other. Specifically, the space where the first electrode assembly (206a) is placed and the space where the second electrode assembly (206b) is placed can be spaced apart with a reaction space (RS) in between.

[0109] A first electrode assembly (206a) comprising a first electrode (210) and a third electrode (230) can be rotated together by a rotation element. Additionally, a second electrode assembly (206b) comprising a second electrode (220) and a fourth electrode (240) can be rotated together by a rotation element. Specifically, at a planar viewpoint, the first electrode assembly (206a) can be rotated by a rotation element with respect to the center of the plane, and the second electrode assembly (206b) can be rotated by a rotation element with respect to the center of the plane.

[0110] Furthermore, the first electrode assembly (206a) and the second electrode assembly (206b) can be rotated by a rotation element and simultaneously moved linearly by an electrode moving element. For example, the space in which the first electrode assembly (206a) is placed and the space in which the second electrode assembly (206b) is placed each have a shape that extends in the second direction (Y), and the electrode moving element can move the first electrode assembly (206a) and the second electrode assembly (206b) linearly in the second direction (Y). For example, the first electrode assembly (206a) and the second electrode assembly (206b) can each move linearly in the second direction (Y).

[0111] The rotation and linear movement of the first electrode assembly (206a) and the rotation and linear movement of the second electrode assembly (206b) may be interrelated.

[0112] For example, in any rotational state where power of different polarities is applied to the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220), the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) may face each other in a second direction (Y). That is, when the first electrode (210) is aligned toward the reaction space (RS), the second electrode (220) may also be aligned toward the reaction space (RS).

[0113] Additionally, in any rotational state where different polarities are applied to the third electrode (230) and the fourth electrode (240), the third electrode (230) and the fourth electrode (240) may face each other in the second direction (Y). That is, when the third electrode (230) is aligned toward the reaction space (RS), the fourth electrode (240) may also be aligned toward the reaction space (RS).

[0114] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 10, the liquid ion generator (17) according to the present embodiment includes a chamber (100), an electromagnetic field generator, and a power source (300), wherein the electromagnetic field generator includes first electrodes (210) and second electrodes (220), and the first electrode (210) includes first-1 electrode (211) and first-2 electrode (212), which is different from the previously described embodiment.

[0116] In a planar view, the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) may each be approximately circular in shape. For example, the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) may be rod-shaped, extending in a third direction which is perpendicular to the plane to which the first direction (X) and the second direction (Y) belong.

[0117] Power of different polarities may be applied to the first electrodes (210) and the second electrode (220). That is, at any given moment, power of the same polarity may be applied to the first-1 electrode (211) and the first-2 electrode (212), and power of a different polarity from that of the first electrode (210) may be applied to the second electrode (220).

[0118] A plurality of first-1 electrodes (211) may be arranged in a second direction (Y) to form a single electrode set (e.g., first-1 electrode set), and a plurality of first-2 electrodes (212) may be arranged in a second direction (Y) to form a single electrode set (e.g., first-2 electrode set). The first-1 electrode set and the first-2 electrode set may be spaced apart approximately in a first direction (X).

[0119] A plurality of second electrodes (220) can be arranged in a second direction (Y) to form a single electrode set (e.g., a second electrode set). At this time, the first-1 electrode set and the first-2 electrode set can be spaced apart in a first direction (X) with the second electrode set in between.

[0120] In an exemplary embodiment, either one of the first-1 electrodes (211) and the first-2 electrode (212) may be spaced apart and facing each other in the first direction (X). On the other hand, either one of the second electrodes (220) may not be facing the first electrodes (210) in the first direction (X), but may be facing in a direction intersecting the first direction (X) and the second direction (Y).

[0121] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 11, the liquid ion generator (18) according to the present embodiment includes a chamber (100), an electromagnetic field generator, and a power source (300), and the electromagnetic field generator includes first electrodes (210) and second electrodes (220), but the second electrode (220) includes a second-1 electrode (221) and a second-2 electrode (222), which is different from the embodiment of FIG. 10.

[0123] As previously explained, from a planar perspective, the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) each have a roughly circular shape and may be rod-shaped extending in a third direction. Power of different polarities may be applied to the first electrodes (210) and the second electrodes (220). That is, at any given moment, power of the same polarity may be applied to the first-1 electrode (211) and the first-2 electrode (212), and power of the same polarity may be applied to the second-1 electrode (221) and the second-2 electrode (222), while power of different polarities may be applied to the first electrodes (210) and the second electrodes (220).

[0124] A plurality of first-1 electrodes (211) may be arranged in a second direction (Y) to form a single electrode set (e.g., first-1 electrode set), and a plurality of first-2 electrodes (212) may be arranged in a second direction (Y) to form a single electrode set (e.g., first-2 electrode set). The first-1 electrode set and the first-2 electrode set may be spaced apart approximately in a first direction (X).

[0125] Likewise, a plurality of second-1 electrodes (221) may be arranged in a second direction (Y) to form a single electrode set (e.g., a second-1 electrode set), and a plurality of second-2 electrodes (222) may be arranged in a second direction (Y) to form a single electrode set (e.g., a second-2 electrode set). The second-1 electrode set and the second-2 electrode set may be spaced apart approximately in a first direction (X).

[0126] The aforementioned first-1 electrode set, second-1 electrode set, first-2 electrode set, and second-2 electrode set can be arranged sequentially in the first direction (X).

[0127] In an exemplary embodiment, either one first-1 electrode (211) and one first-2 electrode (212) may be spaced apart and facing each other in a first direction (X). Also, either one second-1 electrode (221) and one second-2 electrode (222) may be spaced apart and facing each other in a first direction (X). On the other hand, either one first electrode (210) and one second electrode (220) may not be spaced apart and may be spaced apart and facing each other in a direction that intersects the first direction (X) and the second direction (Y).

[0128] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0129] Referring to FIG. 12, the liquid ion generator (19) according to the present embodiment includes a chamber (100), an electromagnetic field generator, and a power source (not shown), but differs from the previously described embodiments in that the reaction space (RS) inside the chamber (100) forms a slanted downward slope so that the reactants, such as a precursor and an ion source, move physically and the ion generating step is performed.

[0130] The chamber (100) may have a reactant inlet (100a). A precursor and / or ion source may be introduced into the reaction space (RS) through the inlet (100a). The chamber (100) may provide a partially downwardly inclined space, such as a downward slope. An electromagnetic field generator comprising a first electrode (210) and a second electrode (220) may be disposed within the downward slope of the chamber (100).

[0131] As previously explained, the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) may be at least partially opposite each other. FIG. 12 illustrates a case where the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) are positioned on the ceiling above and the floor below the downward slope of the chamber (100). Additionally, the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) may be positioned alternately along the extension direction of the downward slope of the chamber (100). The angle of inclination (θ) of the downward slope with respect to the horizontal plane may be in the range of about 1° to 89°, or about 10° to 80°.

[0132] Although not shown in the drawing, the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) may be placed on both side walls of the chamber (100) (e.g., the second direction (Y) side).

[0133] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0134] Referring to FIG. 13, the liquid ion generator (20) according to the present embodiment includes a chamber (100) providing a tilted reaction space (RS), an electromagnetic field generator, and a power source (not shown), wherein the first electrode (210) of the electromagnetic field generator is positioned on the ceiling portion of the downward slope and the second electrode (220) is positioned on the bottom portion of the downward slope, which is different from the embodiment of FIG. 12. As a non-limiting example, the first electrode (210) may be positioned only on the ceiling portion of the downward slope and the second electrode (220) may be positioned only on the bottom portion of the downward slope.

[0135] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0136] Referring to FIG. 14, the liquid ion generator (21) according to the present embodiment includes a chamber (100), an electromagnetic field generator, and a power source (300), but differs from the embodiment of FIG. 1, etc., in that the electromagnetic field generator includes a coil (600) wound to form a magnetic field.

[0137] The coil (600) may be positioned to wrap at least partially around the chamber (100). For example, the coil (600) may wrap around the reaction space (RS) inside the chamber (100). And a power source (300) may provide power to the coil (600). The power source (300) has been described above.

[0138] When current flows through the coil (600), an induced magnetic field can be formed by the coil (600). With respect to the reaction space (RS), the direction of the induced magnetic field formed may be approximately the third direction (Z), but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0139] As previously described, an electromagnetic field generator including a coil (600) forms an electromagnetic field in the reaction space (RS), and as alternating current power is applied, the polarity of the magnetic field can change alternately. Therefore, ionized cations and anions within the reaction space (RS) behave within the magnetic field and can collide with or come into contact with the precursor. That is, the cations and anions behave due to the formed electromagnetic field and can effectively penetrate, diffuse, be injected, bond, or coat into or on the surface of the precursor, thereby forming a physical / chemical bond between the precursor and the ions and inducing the formation of an ion-metal complex.

[0140] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0141] Referring to FIG. 15, the liquid ion generator (22) according to the present embodiment includes a chamber (100), an electromagnetic field generator including a coil (600), and a power source (300), but differs from the embodiment of FIG. 14 in that the electromagnetic field generator further includes a first electrode (210) and a second electrode (220).

[0142] The ion generator (22) according to the present embodiment may include a wound coil (600) to form an induced magnetic field. Furthermore, the electromagnetic field generator may further include a first electrode (210) and a second electrode (220) facing each other in a third direction (Z). The first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) may be arranged facing each other in the direction of the induced magnetic field formed by the coil (600) (e.g., the third direction (Z)).

[0143] The power source (300) may include a first power source (310) and a second power source (320). The first power source (310) may supply power to the coil (600), and the second power source (320) may supply power to the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220). Since the first power source (310) and the second power source (320) may be substantially the same as the aforementioned power source, a redundant description is omitted.

[0144] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0145] Referring to FIG. 16, the liquid ion generator (23) according to the present embodiment may include a chamber (100), an electromagnetic field generator (200) including a first electrode (210) and a second electrode (220), and a power source (300).

[0146] At this time, the first electrode and the second electrode are separated in a horizontal direction, for example, in the first direction (X), whereas the liquid ion generator (23) according to the present embodiment is different in that the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) are separated in a vertical direction or in the direction of gravity, for example, in the third direction (Z).

[0147] The ion source and / or precursor (P) forming the cation (PI) and anion (NI) may have different specific gravities. Therefore, within the chamber (100), the ions (PI, NI) and the precursor (P) may have non-uniform concentration in the third direction (Z). Thus, by separating the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) in the vertical direction, problems caused by the concentration gradient at different positions can be prevented, and the production efficiency and quality uniformity of the metal-ion precursor can be increased.

[0148] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0149] Referring to FIG. 17, the liquid ion generator (24) according to the present embodiment includes a chamber (100), an electromagnetic field generator (200) including a first electrode (210) and a second electrode (220), and a power source (300), but differs from the embodiment of FIG. 1, etc., in that the distance between the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) varies depending on the vertical direction (e.g., third direction (Z)).

[0150] For example, the smallest separation distance is formed at the bottom of the electrodes (210, 220) and the largest separation distance is formed at the top, but the change in separation distance in the third direction (Z) may be gradual.

[0151] Depending on the type of ion source and / or precursor introduced into the chamber (100), there may be a difference in density between the upper and lower portions in the third direction (Z). As in this embodiment, by making the distance from the lower portion smaller than the distance from the upper portion, problems caused by the concentration gradient at different locations can be prevented in response to various types of ion sources or precursors, and the generation efficiency and quality uniformity of the metal-ion precursor can be increased.

[0152] Unlike what is shown in the drawing, in other embodiments, the separation distance at the top may be smaller than the separation distance at the bottom.

[0153] FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0154] Referring to FIG. 18, the liquid ion generator (25) according to the present embodiment includes a chamber (100), an electromagnetic field generator (200) including a first electrode (210) and a second electrode (220), and a power source (300). The separation distance between the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) varies depending on the position in the vertical direction (e.g., the third direction (Z)), but the separation distance is smallest at the approximately center of the third direction (Z), and increases as it goes upward and downward in the third direction (Z), which is different from the embodiment of FIG. 17.

[0155] The change in the distance between the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) can change as an exponential function or a logarithmic function.

[0156] FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0157] Referring to FIG. 19, the liquid ion generator (26) according to the present embodiment includes a chamber (100), an electromagnetic field generator (200) including a first electrode (210) and a second electrode (220), and a power source (300). The separation distance between the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) varies depending on the position in the vertical direction (e.g., the third direction (Z)), but the separation distance is greatest at the approximately center of the third direction (Z), and becomes closer as it goes toward the upper and lower sides of the third direction (Z), which is different from the embodiment of FIG. 18.

[0158] The change in the distance between the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) can change as an exponential function or a logarithmic function.

[0159] FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0160] Referring to FIG. 20, the liquid ion generator (27) according to the present embodiment includes a chamber (100), an electromagnetic field generator (200) including a first electrode (210) and a second electrode (220), and a power source (300). The separation distance is smallest at the approximately center of the third direction (Z), and increases as it goes upward and downward in the third direction (Z), but the change in separation distance is gradual, which is different from the embodiment of FIG. 18.

[0161] FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0162] Referring to FIG. 21, the liquid ion generator (28) according to the present embodiment includes a chamber (100), an electromagnetic field generator (200) including a first electrode (210) and a second electrode (220), and a power source (300). The separation distance between the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) varies at least partially depending on the position in the vertical direction (e.g., the third direction (Z)), but the difference from the embodiment of FIG. 17 is that there is a section where the separation distance between the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) is uniform depending on the position in the third direction (Z).

[0163] That is, the smallest separation distance is formed at the bottom of the electrodes (210, 220) and the largest separation distance is formed at the top, but the largest separation distance can also be formed at the approximate center of the third direction (Z). At this time, the separation distance at the top and the center can be substantially the same.

[0164] FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0165] Referring to FIG. 22, the liquid ion generator (29) according to the present embodiment includes a chamber (100), an electromagnetic field generator (200) including a first electrode (210) and a second electrode (220), and a power source (300). The distance between the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) varies at least partially depending on the position in the vertical direction (e.g., the third direction (Z)). The difference from the embodiment of FIG. 17 is that there is a section where the distance between the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) is uniform depending on the position in the third direction (Z), and the smallest distance is formed at the top.

[0166] That is, the smallest separation distance is formed at the top of the electrodes (210, 220) and the largest separation distance is formed at the bottom, but the largest separation distance can also be formed at the center of the third direction (Z). At this time, the separation distance at the bottom and the center can be substantially the same.

[0167] FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0168] Referring to FIG. 23, the liquid ion generator (30) according to the present embodiment includes a chamber (100), an electromagnetic field generator (200) including a first electrode (210) and a second electrode (220), and a power source (300). The first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) are separated in a vertical direction, i.e., a third direction (Z), but the separation distance between the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) varies depending on the position in the horizontal direction (e.g., the first direction (X)), which is different from the embodiment of FIG. 16.

[0169] FIG. 24 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0170] Referring to FIG. 24, the liquid ion generator (31) according to the present embodiment can be configured as an in-line type.

[0171] For example, the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) may each be provided in a roughly cylindrical or toroidal shape. The space between the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) may define a reaction space (RS).

[0172] The ion source and precursor are injected into the upper opening of the reaction space (RS) and flow downward in the direction of gravity, for example, downward in the third direction (Z), and the reaction can proceed. Then, the reactant can be obtained at the lower opening (not shown).

[0173] FIG. 25 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0174] Referring to FIG. 25, the liquid ion generator (32) according to the present embodiment is configured as an in-line type, and differs from the embodiment of FIG. 24 in that the ion source and precursor flow in a horizontal direction, such as a first direction (X), and the reaction proceeds.

[0175] FIG. 26 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0176] Referring to FIG. 26, the liquid ion generator (33) according to the present embodiment is configured as an in-line type, but differs from the embodiment of FIG. 24 in that the first electrode (210) and the second electrode (220) are not provided in a cylindrical shape but are configured as plates facing each other in a horizontal direction.

[0177] In this embodiment as well, the ion source and the precursor are injected into the upper opening of the reaction space (RS) and flow downward in the direction of gravity, for example, downward in the third direction (Z), and the reaction can proceed.

[0178] FIG. 27 is a schematic diagram of an ion generator according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0179] Referring to FIG. 27, the liquid ion generator (34) according to the present embodiment is configured as an in-line type, and differs from the embodiment of FIG. 26 in that the ion source and precursor flow in a horizontal direction, such as at least a first direction (X), and the reaction proceeds.

[0180] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to preferred embodiments, this is merely illustrative and does not limit the invention. Those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and applications not exemplified above are possible within the scope of the essential characteristics of the embodiments of the invention.

[0181] Accordingly, the scope of the present invention should be understood to include modifications, equivalents, or substitutions of the technical concept exemplified above. For example, each component specifically shown in the embodiments of the present invention may be implemented with modifications. Furthermore, differences related to such modifications and applications should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

Chamber; An electromagnetic field generator that forms an electric or magnetic field within the chamber; and An ion generator comprising a power source that supplies power to the above-mentioned electromagnetic field generator. In paragraph 1, The above power source is an ion generator comprising one or more of an AC power source, a variable AC power source, a DC power source, a variable DC power source, or a combination thereof. In paragraph 2, The above power source is an ion generator comprising at least one of a waveform of a sine wave, a square wave, or a pulse wave. In paragraph 1, An ion generator further comprising a temperature controller for controlling the internal temperature of the chamber. In paragraph 1, The above electromagnetic field generator is, An ion generator comprising at least partially opposing first electrodes and second electrodes. In paragraph 5, It further includes an electrode moving element for adjusting the positions of the first electrode and the second electrode, and The above electrode moving element is an ion generator comprising one or more of a motor, a magnet, an electromagnet, or a combination thereof. In paragraph 5, The above-mentioned opposing electrodes are composed of a plurality of and are arranged alternately in an ion generator. In paragraph 5, The above electromagnetic field generator further includes the third electrode and the fourth electrode, and The above ion generator further includes a rotating element that rotates at least a portion of the above electromagnetic field generator, wherein The first electrode and the third electrode are rotated together by a rotating element, and The second electrode and the fourth electrode are rotated together by a rotating element, and In any rotational state, the first electrode and the second electrode are at least partially opposite each other, and In any rotational state, the third electrode and the fourth electrode are at least partially opposite, The first electrode and the fourth electrode form the same electrode, and The above second electrode and third electrode form the same pole of an ion generator. In paragraph 4, An ion generator further comprising a separator that prevents an ion source from contacting the first electrode or the second electrode within the chamber. In paragraph 5, The first electrode and the second electrode are an ion generator that has been plated to prevent an ion source from coming into contact with the first electrode and the second electrode within the chamber. In paragraph 1, The above electromagnetic field generator is, An ion generator comprising at least a partially wound coil. In Paragraph 11, The above electromagnetic field generator is an ion generator further comprising a first electrode and a second electrode facing each other in the direction of the induced magnetic field formed by the coil. In Paragraph 12, The above power source is, A first power source that supplies power to the above coil, and An ion generator comprising a second power source that supplies power to the first electrode and the second electrode. A method for manufacturing an ion-metal complex comprising applying an electron field to a mixture of a precursor and ions to cause the ions to penetrate, diffuse, implant, bind, or coat the precursor. In Paragraph 14, A method for manufacturing an ion-metal complex in which the polarity of the above-mentioned electromagnetic field changes.

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